By Alan Clement
The Office of the Senior Presidential Special Envoy for Special Programs has sounded the alarm over the humanitarian challenges facing returnees entering Eastern Equatoria State through the Nadapal border.
Following ration cuts and other contributing factors, thousands of South Sudanese returnees arriving daily through Nadapal from Kakuma refugee camp are facing severe challenges in reaching their home communities.
During a visit to Torit in Eastern Equatoria State, Adut Kiir met with community leaders, elders, and women representatives to discuss pressing issues affecting the region particularly the plight of returnees which stood out as a humanitarian priority.
“Many are struggling to reach home, and some children have been lost or even perished along the way,” Adut Kiir said in a statement, expressing deep concern over the conditions facing returnees. She assured local leaders that her office would coordinate with the appropriate authorities to support resettlement efforts and ensure safer reintegration.
“The situation requires urgent attention. My office will work with the relevant authorities to support the resettlement of these returnees,” Kiir said, underscoring the government’s responsibility to ensure safe reintegration.
The influx of returnees has placed additional pressure on local infrastructure and services, with communities along the route reporting limited access to water, shelter, and medical care. Civil society leaders warned that without coordinated support, the situation could worsen.
Elder Alfonse Muras Chacha commended President Salva Kiir for appointing Adut Kiir to champion inclusive leadership, while also voicing concerns over insecurity, cross-border attacks, and the destruction of crops by cattle herders; factors that further complicate the returnee situation.
Addressing other concerns, women’s leaders, including Flora Anyu Charles, called for ambulances, maternity facilities, and boarding schools for girls to help absorb the growing population and meet urgent social needs. They also acknowledged progress made under Governor Louis Lobong in food production, education, and efforts to combat gender-based violence.
Governor Lobong welcomed the envoy’s visit, stating that women’s needs are now better represented at the national level by the appointment of Adut Kiir in a senior role.
The envoy’s visit comes at a time when Eastern Equatoria is facing mounting pressure from the continuous influx of returnees, placing additional strain on already limited social services.